SHARON MCBRIDE
A referendum to dissolve West Peoria Township will be on the ballot Nov. 3. West Peoria Township Trustees voted unanimously at a special meeting Aug. 13 to place the item on the ballot. This meeting followed a public hearing Aug. 12 held at the West Peoria City Garage. Dissolution has been discussed regularly at monthly board meetings and at the last three annual town meetings. Having performed due diligence weighing the costs and benefits for the citizens of West Peoria, it was decided dissolving the township was in the best interests of the citizens.
The City of West Peoria will assume the responsibility of processing general assistance grants to needy residents who meet the criteria for assistance with rent, utility bills, food and transportation. That consolidation will result in savings for all West Peoria taxpayers. All current property taxes and township assets will be transferred to the City of West Peoria. The question on the ballot will read: “Shall the township of West Peoria cease?”
Another important referendum that appears on the ballot is to allow Peoria County to sell Heddington Oaks which has been closed for several months. Taxpayer approval is needed to allow the sale. It has proven too expensive for Peoria County to maintain.
Take the time to enjoy the Western Avenue Greenway along North Western Avenue between Main Street and Calendar Avenue. This linear park adds to the neighborly atmosphere of West Peoria and has been in existence for more than 40 years. The park is maintained by private citizens and is not owned by the city. Take your time to keep the Greenway looking good whenever you have some time; you can pick up trash, pull weeds or trim trees and bushes. Bring your own yard tools. See the Facebook page for the Western Avenue Greenway for contact information.
Scouting news: Come join Cub Scouts Pack 11. For more information, contact Robert DeSutter, 369-8078. Scouting provides a huge amount of opportunities for the young people of our communities and their families.
Pack 11 will be selling cookie dough in October as a fund raiser. Troop 11 will again be selling Christmas wreaths and butter braids in November. For more information, call 369-8078.
Some things to remember about lawn waste pickup: Leaves and weeds must be bagged and branches must be tied in bundles that trash collectors can handle. If bags get wet and damaged, collectors are not responsible for cleaning up. Large bulk items will be picked up by Waste Management for an extra fee. Call 694-6246 to make arrangements. There was no Clean Up Day in 2020 due to Covid-19 restrictions.
City Hall has a notary in the office during regular office hours Monday through Friday. Bring your ID to use the notary. This is free for West Peoria residents only.
This year’s election is critical. If you do not wish to vote in person, all registered voters can apply for a mail-in ballot. Mail the ballot or personally take it to the Peoria County Election Commission, 4422 Brandywine Drive. A secured after-hours drop box is outside the offices. All ballots must be returned in person or if mailed have a postmark by Nov. 3.